MEBA10: Embraer delivers its first Legacy 650 to Middle East customer

The first of Embraer's latest business jets – the Legacy 650 – for the Middle East market was delivered to an undisclosed customer from Jordan on Sunday at Embraer's headquarters in São José dos Campos, Brazil.
Time Aerospace thumbnail

The aircraft will be managed on behalf of its owner by private jet charter operator Arab Wings, also based in Jordan.

“We are delighted to deliver the first Legacy 650 large executive jet in the Middle East to our friends from Arab Wings,” said Colin Steven, vice president. “The aircraft’s Jordanian owner will appreciate the unparalleled comfort of the cabin with its three distinct zones, providing space to both work and relax. The aircraft’s huge baggage compartment is ideal for long-distance flying.”

Arab Wings already operates one super-midsize Legacy 600 in its fleet. The large Legacy 650 will enable the charter company to fly clients up to 3,900 nautical miles (7,223km), non-stop, with four passengers, or 3,840 nautical miles (7,112km) with eight passengers.

“This significant increase in range was accomplished through extensive airframe modifications, such as reinforced wings and landing gear, larger fuel capacity and new highly efficient and more powerful Rolls-Royce AE 3007A2 engines. Honeywell’s new Primus Elite avionics suite equips both the Legacy 650 and future Legacy 600s,” said Steven.

Due to the aircraft performance under hot and high conditions, where they operate easily up to temperatures of 50°C, both aircraft have been very successful in the Middle East market.

“We are honoured to be the first operator in the Middle East region to operate this exciting new aircraft,” said Ahmad Abu Ghazaleh, chief executive of Arab Wings. “Following the great success we’ve enjoyed with the Legacy 600 in our fleet, this Legacy 650 is a natural complement, enabling us to offer longer, non-stop flights.”